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Train crashes into tractor-trailer stalled on tracks in Lakeland

Posted at 4:47 AM, Dec 13, 2017
and last updated 2017-12-13 09:12:41-05

LAKELAND, Fla. — A train crashed into a tractor-trailer carrying meat that was stalled on the tracks in Lakeland Wednesday morning.

Around midnight, a tractor-trailer carrying meat products stalled on the train tracks on Ingraham Avenue in Lakeland, possibly due to a brake issue. 

The driver of the tractor-trailer contacted CSX but they were unable to notify the train engineer in time. The engineer was also unable to stop in time when seeing the tractor-trailer on the tracks.

The driver abandoned the tractor-trailer and the train struck it on the tracks. The impact cut the tractor-trailer into two pieces. Debris also wrapped around the front of the train which stopped several hundred feet away. The crossing signal was also damaged.

 

 

Various meat products and other food were scattered down the tracks. The unidentified company sent workers and took what they could. Some of the products could not be salvaged and will have to be disposed of. 

No injuries have been reported. 

The scene was cleared by 9 a.m. on Wednesday.

Mary Stringini is a Digital Reporter for ABC Action News. Follow her on Twitter @MaryWFTS.